Spain's Adif Reduces High-Speed Rail Speed on Barcelona-Madrid Line Following Track Issues and Fatal Crash

Temporary Speed Restriction Imposed

Administrador de Infraestructuras Ferroviarias (Adif), Spain's state-owned railway infrastructure manager, has announced a temporary reduction in the maximum speed for high-speed trains operating on a 187-kilometer stretch of the line connecting Barcelona and Madrid. The speed limit has been set at 160 km/h, a significant decrease from the previous speeds, which could reach up to 300 km/h on this route. This measure was implemented on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, and is described as temporary, pending overnight inspections of the infrastructure.

Track Irregularities Prompt Action

The decision by Adif comes after numerous reports from train drivers concerning 'baches' (holes or bumps) and other irregularities on the affected track section. These issues have reportedly caused excessive vibrations, leading to concerns about the condition of the infrastructure. The train drivers' union, SEMAF, had previously issued warnings to Adif in August 2025 regarding significant wear and tear on tracks across various lines, including potholes and imbalances, which they stated were causing frequent breakdowns and damage to trains. Adif itself had also noted several technical incidents on high-speed lines in the past year.

Context of Recent Fatal Collision

This speed reduction is also enacted in the immediate aftermath of a tragic high-speed train collision that occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, near Adamuz, Córdoba, in southern Spain. The accident involved an Iryo high-speed train traveling from Málaga to Madrid, which derailed and subsequently collided with a Renfe Alvia long-distance train operating on a parallel track from Madrid to Huelva. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least 41 people, with hundreds more sustaining injuries. Investigations into the exact cause of this fatal collision are ongoing.

Adif's Response and Future Outlook

Adif has stated that technicians will conduct thorough inspections of the infrastructure overnight. The temporary speed restriction could be lifted if these inspections confirm the safety of the tracks. The measure highlights a proactive approach to safety following the recent events and ongoing concerns raised by railway personnel regarding track conditions. The reduction in speed is expected to add over 30 minutes to journey times on the affected route.